2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to classic SUV styling, with Chevy using distinct styling details to differentiate trim levels. Its exterior was a typical SUV design with a tall roof and chunky wheel arches, offering a cleaner look compared to some competitors. The RS model featured blacked-out trim, while the High Country model had chrome accents. Inside, the Traverse maintained a restrained style, highlighted by an optional Dual SkyScape sunroof. Materials in the RS model were decent but not quite matching its price tag.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had a sharp, streamlined profile with a scowling front, maintaining a familiar yet distinct look. Sharing a platform with the older Toyota RAV4, the NX felt a bit dated in engineering. The F Sport Black Line model sported a larger mesh grille and dark-finish wheels, with a striking Grecian Water paint. Inside, the design was once radical but had become familiar, with a stepped center console and sporty elements like aluminum pedals. Material quality, however, felt more mainstream than luxury.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While not feeling as powerful as its specs suggested, it provided adequate power for highway merging. The Traverse excelled in highway comfort with a quiet cabin and smooth suspension but lacked agility on twisty roads. Its AWD system required manual activation and offered torque vectoring capabilities, though this wasn't noticeable in driving. The Traverse had a 5,000-pound towing capacity, average for its class.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 194 horsepower. It wasn't a performance vehicle, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The hybrid system focused on efficiency, though it struggled with power delivery. The F Sport model's sport-tuned suspension improved handling without sacrificing comfort. However, steering felt numb, and the NX didn't match the tightness of newer models. Drive modes offered minimal impact, with Eco mode further reducing acceleration.

The Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom. Cargo space was a standout, with up to 98.2 cubic feet available. A power liftgate and split-folding third row added convenience. Despite its size, interior storage was limited, typical for midsize crossovers.

The Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with rear legroom being the worst in its class. Front seats were comfortable with 10-way power adjustment. The sloping roofline affected rear visibility, though large mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet available, and a power-folding second row was optional.

The Traverse's infotainment system included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An 8-inch screen and Bose audio system were available. The system was user-friendly, with analog controls for volume and climate. A rearview camera mirror improved visibility, and USB ports were standard across all rows.

The Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display with a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, but the system felt dated. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system optional. The base audio system lacked quality.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top safety scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, it offered fewer standard driver-assist features compared to competitors, with many being optional.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, making it a strong contender in safety features.